The Active Minds chapter at the University of Nebraska at Kearney is a small but passionate group. As we pulled into campus, Amanda Raffety, the local chapter’s secretary, waved the Send Silence Packing truck in and led us to our spot. After a round of introductions, everyone began unloading the truck for the UNK display.

They were so excited to have the display come to their school. Their advisor, Kristin Chamness explained that they had brainstormed ways to host a display on their own, but that coming up with the 1,100 bags was more difficult than they thought it would be. This problem was solved with the tour. Within the hour, the 1,100 touring bags were laid out and ready for viewing.

There was great support for the chapter on campus as almost all of the volunteers were from outside groups.

We had the opportunity to speak with a lot of students passing by throughout the day and there was a common theme of raising an awareness for mental health. The interactions went as well as we could ever hope for—a large majority of those passing not only stopped to read the stories, but opened up a dialogue with their peers and the volunteers.

If you attended the display at Kearney, please take a moment to complete a survey, thank you.